An energy crisis across Australia took us to the brink of blackouts last week.  A cold snap; the war in the Ukraine; and escalating global coal and gas prices formed a perfect storm where we were being urged to turn the dishwasher off.  The crisis prompted the market operator to suspend the short term market and take control over supply. 

Mark Ludlow writes for the Australian Financial Review on energy.  He says the long term solution is renewables with storage, but how do we manage that transition whilst avoiding crises like last week’s. 

The Energy Security Agency has proposed a capacity mechanism which would essentially keep quickly dispatchable power on standby for moments of shortfall.  So, how would it work and how likely is it to be passed by a Senate stacked with Greens and independents?

Today's Headlines:
- NSW and QLD reveal budgets
- Greens slam proposed energy solution
- Single Covid and flu jab nears final stage
- Higgins rape trial could be delayed after Logies speech
- Mixed reaction to FINA's trans policy

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